Is African collared dove the same as ringneck dove?

African collared doves and ringneck doves are two different species of doves that are commonly confused with one another. While they share some similarities in appearance, behavior, and distribution, they are distinct species with key differences.

Appearance

At a glance, African collared doves and ringneck doves appear very similar. Both have pale gray feathers on their bodies, dark gray feathers on their wings and tails, and black rings around their necks. However, there are some key differences in their plumage and markings:

• African collared doves have a black half-collar on the nape of their necks. Ringneck doves have a complete black collar or ring.
• African collared doves have dark primary feathers with white spots or bars on their wings. Ringneck doves lack these white spots/bars on their wings.
• The tail feathers of ringneck doves are tipped in white. African collared dove tail feathers lack the white tips.
• African collared doves have a reddish-brown iris while ringneck doves have a yellowish iris.

In terms of size, African collared doves tend to be slightly slimmer and smaller than ringneck doves, but there is considerable overlap in their size ranges:

Behavior

In terms of behavior, African collared doves and ringneck doves share some common traits. Both species:

• Form monogamous breeding pairs.
• Nest in trees or shrubs.
• Feed on the ground on seeds and grain.
• Produce crops milk to feed their young.
• Make soft, haunting cooing vocalizations.

However, there are some differences in their behavior as well:

• African collared doves are more terrestrial while ringneck doves spend more time in trees and bushes.
• Ringneck doves are generally shyer than the often very tame African collared doves.
• The flight of ringneck doves is described as quicker and more darting than the fast and direct flight of African collared doves.

Geographic Distribution and Habitat

Both African collared doves and ringneck doves are found in warm regions around the world. However, their native ranges differ significantly:

• African collared doves are native to Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Ringneck doves are native to southern Europe, northern Africa, and southern Asia.

African collared doves have been introduced to many parts of the world outside their native African range. This includes introductions to North America, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia. Meanwhile, ringneck doves have also been introduced and established some feral populations beyond their native range.

In terms of habitat, both species favor open country near human habitation, including farmlands, residential areas with large gardens, and parks. However, ringneck doves are also found readily in more natural and remote scrublands and forests within their range.

Taxonomy and Genetics

African collared doves and ringneck doves belong to distinct, though closely related, species:

• African collared dove: Streptopelia roseogrisea
• Ringneck dove: Streptopelia capicola

These two species belong to the genus Streptopelia, which includes other species such as the Eurasian collared dove, vinaceous dove, and laughing dove. Genetic analysis supports the classification of African collared dove and ringneck dove as distinct species within this genus.

There are four recognized subspecies of African collared dove:

• S. r. roseogrisea – west Africa
• S. r. saturata – east Africa and the Comoros Islands
• S. r. erlangeri – northern Somalia
• S. r. frafra – southern Sudan to northern Uganda

The Barbary dove was previously considered a subspecies of the ringneck dove but is now recognized as a separate species Streptopelia risoria.

Status and Conservation

African collared doves and ringneck doves are both considered species of Least Concern by the IUCN. This means their global population is abundant and they face no major widespread threats. A few key points regarding their status:

• African collared doves have thrived outside their native range as introduced species. Their global population is estimated at 5-50 million individuals.
• Ringneck doves have a large global range and population estimated between 35-75 million individuals.
• Habitat loss and trapping for the pet trade are localized threats for the ringneck dove in parts of their range.

Neither species is globally at risk of extinction based on current population levels and trends. However, as with any species, monitoring is important to ensure continued survival and address any emerging threats.

Similar Species

Beyond each other, African collared doves and ringneck doves may be confused with some other dove species, including:

• Eurasian Collared Dove: Native to Asia and introduced to Europe. Now present as an introduced species in the Americas and Caribbean as well. Lacks the black neck ring and has a black half collar like the African collared dove.
• Mourning Dove: Native species in the Americas. Smaller than African collared dove and ringneck dove. Plumage is light brownish-gray overall with small black spots on the wings.
• Laughing Dove: Native to Africa, southern Asia, and Australia. Distinguished by its brown plumage with black and white stripes and spots on the neck and wings.
• Vinaceous Dove: Native to South America. Larger than the other species. Pinkish-purple plumage on neck and breast.

Key Differences

In summary, here are some of the key differences that distinguish African collared doves and ringneck doves:

Conclusion

In conclusion, while African collared doves and ringneck doves share a close evolutionary relationship and some similar traits, they are distinct species with key differences in appearance, distribution, genetics, and behavior. An awareness of the distinguishing features allows for proper identification and understanding of their separate natural histories. Both species are thriving and face no major conservation threats at present.